Instagram Removes Searchable #EDM Hashtag

Instagram has removed the searchable hashtag #EDM from its application due to the violation of community guidelines. The guidelines state that the app is “an authentic and safe place for inspiration and expression” and adds “please don’t spam people or post nudity.”

According to Time magazine, Instagram spokesman Gabe Madway explained the blocking of the hashtag: “In this case, #EDM was being used to share content that violates our guidelines around nudity.” Other hashtags that have been blacklisted include #weed, #sex, #lingerie and #underwear although #boxershorts is still acceptable.

Hashtags are intensely moderated on Instagram, especially following last month’s fall out when the #curvy was banned. Many users were infuriated when the positive body image term was blacklisted from the app. The hashtag has since been reinstated.

EDM is – of course – the abbreviation of electronic dance music. As of press time all 11 million posts labeled with #EDM are not viewable, but the 36 top posts with the same hashtag pop up when searched on the app.